MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 19: Sabrina Frederick-Traub of the Lions celebrates a goal with Kaitlyn Ashmore of the Lions during the 2017 AFLW Round 07 match between the Carlton Blues and the Brisbane Lions at Ikon Park on March 19, 2017 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Adam Trafford/AFL Media/Getty Images)

League confirms AFLW Grand Final to be played at Metricon Stadium

The Brisbane Lions have been denied a home AFLW Grand Final, despite finishing on top of the ladder.

The AFL confirmed on Monday afternoon the game has been shifted away from the Gabba due to surface issues.

“The Brisbane Lions have earned the right to host the inaugural NAB AFLW Grand Final in their home state, and it is extremely disappointing that the first-ever Women’s Grand Final cannot be at the home of AFL football in Brisbane,” AFL chief Gillon McLachlan said.

“The AFL is profoundly disappointed the Gabba surface is not able to be presented for the AFLW showpiece match but we hope that as many Lions’ fans as possible, and travelling fans of the Adelaide Crows, can support the match at Metricon Stadium.

“Attendance for the Grand Final will be free, and we will also be seeking the support of the Government to maximise transport options to get fans to the game.”

The match between Brisbane and Adelaide will now be played at Metricon Stadium on Saturday at 1pm Queensland time, as a curtain raiser to the Gold Coast v Brisbane AFL match at the same stadium that night.

The turf had been deemed unsafe following several concerts by English singer, Adele, last week.